July 27-28, 2018 • Frankfort, NY

FAQs

Who produces the festival and why?

The Great American Irish Festival is produced by the Great American Irish Festival, Inc., a non-profit organization comprised solely of volunteers whose goal is to establish the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley. Proceeds from the event will be dedicated to obtaining this goal in the very near future.

Where and when is the festival held?

Planning ahead couldn't be easier! The festival is always held on the last full weekend in July, at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds in Frankfort, NY, (just east of Utica).Dates this year are:

What is the price of admission?

FREE ADMISSION for children 12 and under AND active military members (with valid ID) and immediate family*Note: no two-day passes will be available at the gate

Are group ticket sales available?

Yes. Parties of 20 or more are encouraged to contact us for group pricing information. We will also make every effort to accommodate tour buses. E-mail us at: director@greatamericanirishfest.com

Where can I stay overnight?

There are many hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts in the greater Utica-Herkimer area, and camping is also an option! Check out our accommodations page for more information.

Camping? Please tell me more...

A site with a tent is $70, and $80 for an RV/Camper. (See ticket page) For more information, check out Camping. Don't delay; sites sell out quickly!

Are camping/RV sites with hookups available?

Yes. A limited number of campsites are available on site with hookups for water and electric. For more information, check out Camping.

What if it rains?

Our musical stages are completely under cover for both performers and patrons. All of the merchandise vendors are indoors and food vendors provide their own tents for cover from the elements

Can I bring my pet?

Sorry, no. For the safety of your pet and the patrons of the festival, pets (with the exception of guide dogs) are not permitted to enter the event site.

Can I bring a cooler with food and beverages through the gate?

No. There will be a wide variety of food vendors offering reasonably-priced foods. There are two beer vending sites, and non-alcoholic beverages are available at the food vendor locations throughout the festival. Infant supplies will be allowed. Security will check all bags at the gate.
Absolutely NO alcohol will be allowed either in or out of the festival gates or parking facilities.

Where do I park?

Parking Attendants will direct you in and out from Cemetery St on the Fairgrounds side (2 Lots available) and the overflow lot across the street. Anyone with Handicap Parking Stickers WILL BE ACCOMMODATED in the main parking lot as close to the entrance as possible. Transportation from the Handicap Lot will be provided if needed.

Is the GAIF handicapped accessible?

Yes. The event is held on ground level with no stairs to impede handicapped patrons. Handicapped parking is adjacent to the main admissions gate.

Will there be ATMs available?

Yes, there are ATMs located in the Administration Building, the Merchandise Vendor Building and near the token booth. The locations are detailed on the festival map. However, patrons are encouraged to bring cash with them. Many, but not all, vendors will accept credit/debit cards. Check with individual vendors prior to making any purchases.

How much is parking?

Parking at the festival has traditionally been free. However, this year, we are coordinating with the Notre Dame High School's NJROTC. The NJROTC will help coordinate parking. For their help, we are requesting each vehicle to donate $1.00 to support them. This collaboration helps the Great American Irish Festival with parking and helps support the Notre Dame High School's NJROTC in trade.